June 12th- Just To Clarify

As to my last post, I wanted to make sure I clarify something so that I won't be misunderstood. Please understand this very fact, I think that "cutting edge" methods, ideology and creative ways of doing church is excellent and greatly needed! Again, that is what we at FCOH are wanting to accomplish as well. I also believe that such methods are of a necessity for the purpose of attracting the attention of non-believers as they enter a church service. I believe that methods of the church needs to change when it comes to reaching an ever changing society. However, the message of the Gospel must remain the same. I do believe that as "time keeps moving" there will always be another church in the horizon that will be considered the "next best thing." In the 1980's we had the keyboard/synthesizer, and a transparency projector, remember that? Back than we considered that "cutting edge." In the 90's PowerPoint presentations and video came out and we called that type of worship style "cutting edge" as well. Today the church has come a long way as to technology and multi-media and has without a doubt enhanced the way we do church. My main concern is NOT necessarily our methods in which we reach the un-churched, but my concern is that the church not use solely "methods" in building stronger Christians. This is why I mentioned that the "Church" has become or shall I say "will become" a form of Six Flags Fellowship. People are by nature an emotional species. If it looks good, sounds good and feels good than hop aboard! Thus, the importance and urgency of true discipleship. When the body of Christ can invest time and energy in the spiritual growth of an individual, than that individual can develop a foundation of conviction rather than a life based on emotion. Hence, the discipled individual will not leave to seek out the "next best thing." Remember, there will always be churches that will do greater and more innovative things than others. This is why churches such as Fellowship of Dallas, Fellowship of the Woodlands, Willowcreek and Saddleback are hands down the most "cutting edge" churches in the world! Does that mean every church needs to be up to date as they are? Not necessarily; however they can be an example of great things to come in the modern day Christian church. Therefore, who would want to leave a church of that caliber? Again, my intentions and motive was not to stir trouble or to ruffle feathers, however I wanted to make the point that nothing takes the place of discipleship as the means of building strong Christians. Video, drama, worship, smoke, light, etc, are only to enhance but never to take the place of teaching the Word of God! My desire is that the church become more than just an emotional ride to the alter, but may we be a life that lives out genuine convictions as we find ourselves solely at the feet of Jesus. Technology is great, but may that not be the reason why we as Christians attend church. Let's use it to bring people through our doors in whatever creative way necessary. Yet, may we go to the house of God with a heart ready to worship the Lord, to hear from the Lord, and to allow our methods and technology to enhance what the Lord wants to do that day!

Until Next Time- Pastor Sammy (Thanks to my dear brother at FC-Grapevine. May the Lord bless you and your ministry)